Dambusters Flight Experience to celebrate 90th birthday

24th September 2018

Branch President Harry Birchall’s family organised a Dambusters Flight Experience to celebrate his 90th birthday. Speaking before the flight Harry said: “We’ll fly in a four seater Piper at 500 feet over reservoirs, then have a meal, and go to the North East Land, Sea and Air Museum in Sunderland.”

Harry was in the RAF from 1946-48 based at Woodvale. He trained as a motor mechanic with 5MT before it was disbanded and he moved onto the phones. Once demobbed he went back to driving and delivered silk yarn around the UK.

“I’m delighted; Harry helps us so much with the Wings Appeal collections” said branch committee member, Marion Lawton. Harry added: “It’s a day out for me. I like doing it. I get talking to people – and they open their purses. I do anything I can – I even bought a watch and two model aeroplanes from a firm that was advertising them cheap and did a small raffle for branch funds.

“I’m thinking about a parachute tandem jump to fundraise in summer 2019. I’m all for it.”